Mount Race facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Race |
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 2,365 ft (721 m) |
| Prominence | 453 ft (138 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Southwest Berkshire County, Massachusetts |
| Parent range | Taconic Mountains |
| Geology | |
| Age of rock | Ordovician |
| Mountain type | Thrust fault; metamorphic rock |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Race Brook Falls Trail and Appalachian Trail |
Mount Race is a cool mountain located in the Taconic Mountains of Massachusetts. It stands about 2,365 feet (721 m) tall. This mountain is famous for its amazing waterfalls and a super steep cliff on its eastern side.
From the top of Mount Race, you can see incredible views. You'll spot the Housatonic River valley and the Berkshires to the east. To the west, you can see other Taconic peaks, the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River valley. The famous Appalachian Trail even crosses over the mountain's cliff and summit. Mount Race is also home to special old trees like pitch pine and scrub oak.
Exploring Mount Race
Mount Race is a great place for outdoor adventures. It has some beautiful natural features that many people enjoy visiting.
Waterfalls and Trails
One of the most popular spots is Race Brook Falls. This amazing waterfall tumbles down from a rocky ledge. This ledge is shared between Mount Race and Mount Everett to the north. Another pretty waterfall, Bear Rock Falls, is found on the southeast side of the mountain. It's right along the path of the Appalachian Trail.
If you want to stay overnight, there's a simple campsite. It's located near Race Brook Falls, right on the Race Brook Falls Trail. These trails offer fantastic opportunities for hiking and exploring.
Location and Protection
The top and western side of Mount Race are in the town of Mount Washington. The eastern slopes are in Sheffield, Massachusetts. A large part of the mountain's higher areas are protected. They are part of the Mount Washington State Forest. Other parts of the mountain are also protected by special conservation agreements. This helps keep the mountain's natural beauty safe for everyone.
Water Flow and Rivers
The water from the east side of Mount Race flows into Race Brook and Bear Rock Brook. These brooks then join Schenob Brook, which flows into the Hubbard Brook. Eventually, all this water reaches the Housatonic River and then the Long Island Sound.
On the south side, water drains into Plantain Pond. From there, it flows into Bear Rock Brook. The west side of the mountain sends its water into City Brook. This brook then flows into Bash Bish Brook, then the Roeliff Jansen Kill, and finally the Hudson River. All this water eventually reaches New York Bay in the Atlantic Ocean.
